The correct option for the question regarding the first restructure of the Nigerian Federation is
A. creation of mid-west Region in 1963.
Detailed Explanation
- Understanding the Context:
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Nigeria gained independence from British colonial rule in 1960. At that time, the country was divided into three regions: Northern, Western, and Eastern regions. This structure was based on ethnic and geographical lines, reflecting the diverse cultures and languages in Nigeria.
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The Creation of the Mid-West Region:
- In 1963, the Nigerian government recognized the need to address the demands of the people in the Mid-Western region, which was primarily inhabited by the Edo and Delta ethnic groups. This led to the creation of the Mid-West Region, which was the first significant alteration to the original three-region structure.
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The establishment of the Mid-West Region was a response to the growing calls for regional autonomy and representation, marking a pivotal moment in Nigeria's federal structure. It allowed for more localized governance and aimed to give a voice to the people in that area.
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Why Option A is Correct:
- The creation of the Mid-West Region in 1963 is considered the first restructure of the Nigerian Federation because it was the first time the original three-region structure was expanded. This change laid the groundwork for future adjustments in Nigeria's federal system, including the eventual creation of more states.
Analysis of Other Options
- Option B: Abolition of federalism in 1966:
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This option is incorrect because the abolition of federalism did not occur in 1966. Instead, Nigeria experienced a series of military coups during this period, but federalism as a concept was not abolished. The military regime did alter the governance structure, but it did not represent a formal restructuring of the federation itself.
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Option C: Military counter-coup in 1966:
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This option is also incorrect. The military counter-coup in July 1966 was a significant political event that led to the overthrow of the civilian government. However, it did not restructure the federation. Instead, it resulted in military rule, which often disregarded the federal structure in favor of centralized control.
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Option D: Creation of states in 1967:
- While the creation of states in 1967 was indeed a significant restructuring of the Nigerian Federation, it was not the first. This restructuring expanded the number of states from four to twelve, but it came after the establishment of the Mid-West Region in 1963. Therefore, it cannot be considered the first restructure.
Summary of Key Points
- The first restructure of the Nigerian Federation occurred with the creation of the Mid-West Region in 1963.
- This change was a response to regional demands for representation and autonomy.
- The other options either describe events that did not constitute a restructuring of the federation or occurred after the Mid-West Region was established.
- Understanding the timeline and significance of these events is crucial for grasping the evolution of Nigeria's federal structure.
Revision Summary
- The first restructure of the Nigerian Federation was the creation of the Mid-West Region in 1963.
- This change addressed regional demands and expanded the original three-region structure.
- Other options either misrepresent the events or describe later developments in Nigeria's political history.
- Familiarity with these historical milestones is essential for understanding Nigeria's governance and federalism.